Research Advocate Training Application

The FORCE Research Advocate Training (FRAT) Program is an introductory course for individuals with little or no experience who wish to become involved in research advocacy. The program consists of approximately 6 webinars on topics including “Cancer 101,” basic genetics, intro to clinical trials and research, patient protection, ethics, and more.

While individuals affected by hereditary cancer are significant stakeholders in cancer research, historically our input has been limited. Cancer research requires consumer input to guide direction and relevance, but panels often don’t include consumer advisors with knowledge about hereditary risk. The goal of this training program is to educate volunteers with a personal interest in hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, empowering them to participate in research advocacy and to assure that our community perspective is considered.

FORCE's FRAT Program aims to develop a body of research advocates in the hereditary breast and ovarian cancer community, to spur greater patient engagement in research-related activities, and to give the HBOC community a place at the table in cancer research.

To be eligible to for the FRAT Program, individuals must have a desire to get involved in addressing HBOC issues at a scientific/research level. Participants must have an interest in representing the HBOC community—as cancer survivors, previvors, family members or friends of those affected by hereditary cancer. Prior scientific or medical knowledge is not required. Applicants must be willing to commit to “attending” the training webinars (real-time or archived) and have the ability to become engaged in research-related activities. The most important requirement is that applicants demonstrate a commitment to improving the lives of those affected by HBOC.

If you are interested in applying for the FRAT Program, please complete this application to help us learn more about you. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age. We are only able to consider U.S. residents for the program at this time. Please note that training takes place on a rolling basis. Your patience is appreciated as we review applications and coordinate training commencement.

Your responses to the questions in this survey will help ensure that we have broad representation from various geographic regions, ages and ethnicities--an important element in research. We respect your privacy and will not share any information without your permission.

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1. Please enter the following information:

Please enter the following information: Name:

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

Phone Number(s):

Email Address:

Profession:

Year of Birth:

2. Highest level of education completed:

Highest level of education completed: Some high school

High school diploma

Some college

Associate Degree

College degree

Advanced degree

Other (please specify)

3. What is your ethnicity? (choose all that apply)

What is your ethnicity? (choose all that apply) White

Black or African-American

American Indian or Alaskan Native

Asian

Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander

Hispanic

Other

Other race (please specify)

4. Which of these applies to your situation? I am a:

Which of these applies to your situation? I am a: BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation carrier